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I’m a huge fan of YA books because anyone can get hooked on them.
I’ve read a ton of YA myself, and I think they’re great for readers of all ages.
This Black History Month, I wanted to share some YA books that focus on Black history and culture.
I’ve read quite a few of these books myself, and they’re all worth the read.
I’ve included a little bit of everything – from romance to historical fiction to graphic novels – so no matter what you’re into, you’ll find something that speaks to you.
1. If You Come Softly by Jacqueline Woodson
Ellie and Miah are two teens at Percy Academy, each struggling in their own way.
Ellie has family issues, while Miah is one of the few Black students.
When they fall in love, they face the challenge of keeping it secret because their families won’t understand.
Sadly, life makes a tough decision for them.
This story feels like a gentle, heart-tugging reminder of how love and struggles sometimes clash.
2. We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds
Avery has to leave her life in DC and live with her grandmother, who is terminally ill.
The tension in her family makes things awkward, and Avery starts digging into the past to find out the secrets that tore her family apart.
This one is a tough but beautiful journey of discovering truths, even when it means disrupting what’s comfortable.
What I love about this book is how it shows that sometimes facing the past is the hardest but most rewarding thing we can do for ourselves.
3. Star Child by Ibi Zoboi
This is such a beautiful tribute to Octavia Butler.
Written in verse and prose, it explores the early life of a visionary who changed the world with her science fiction stories.
Growing up during the Space Race and Civil Rights Movement, Butler’s childhood shaped her voice as a storyteller.
I can’t help but be inspired by how this book celebrates the power of imagination and how it shaped the world.
A great read if you’re into both history and creativity.
4. Victory Stand: Raising My Fist for Justice by Tommie Smith, Dawud Anyabwile, and Derrick Barnes
Tommie Smith’s story is incredibly inspiring.
As the gold medalist in the 200-meter sprint at the 1968 Olympics, he raised his fist in protest of racial injustice.
This graphic novel memoir takes us through his journey and shows his childhood and how he became an iconic figure for justice.
I admire the courage he had – sometimes standing up for what’s right comes at a huge cost, but Tommie’s story shows us it’s always worth it.
5. The Awakening of Malcolm X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Tiffany D. Jackson
This one is a closer look at Malcolm X’s teenage years and time in prison and it shoes us how his journey shaped him into the powerful activist he became.
I really love how it highlights his awakening process, from being lost and uncertain to finding his purpose.
It’s a powerful, intimate view of someone who fought for justice in such a personal way that will really make you think about the power of change and growth.
6. Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom by Lynda Blackmon Lowery
Lynda was the youngest marcher in the 1965 voting rights march in Selma.
Her memoir brings readers into the heart of the Civil Rights Movement.
Her strength and bravery are awe-inspiring, especially when you realize how young she was at the time.
I think this is such an important book to read, because it shows that even the youngest voices have the power to change history.
7. Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas
Maverick Carter is seventeen and already deep in the world of gangs, as he tries to take care of his family while dealing drugs.
But when he finds out he’s a father, everything changes.
This book really made me think about how easy it is to get trapped in the expectations of others, but also how important it is to choose a better path for yourself.
Mav’s struggle between loyalty and responsibility is so raw and real.
8. Roll of Thunder, Hear Me Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
Cassie Logan’s family owns land in Mississippi, which is a source of pride, but when a white girl humiliates Cassie, she starts to understand the heavy cost of that pride in a racist society.
The way Cassie’s family stands up for what they believe in, even when others try to tear them down, is truly moving.
It’s a powerful story about dignity and fighting for what’s right, even when it’s hard.
I really think this is a must-read for learning about resilience and pride in the face of injustice.
9. A Song Below Water by Bethany C. Morrow
Tavia is a siren who has to hide her true identity in a world that’s scared of people like her.
But when a murder trial shakes the siren community, everything changes.
Tavia’s journey of self-discovery, alongside her best friend Effie, really makes you think about the balance between secrecy and truth.
This book was such an incredible way to explore identity, freedom, and the costs of staying silent.
10. Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
Will’s brother Shawn has just been murdered, and Will is heading out to get revenge.
As the elevator stops on each floor, people from his past get on and tell their side of the story, and this makes Will question everything he thought he knew.
This book really makes you think about violence, revenge, and the cost of holding onto pain.
It’s intense, emotional, and thought-provoking – definitely one that’ll stay with you long after you finish.
I’d love to hear which ones caught your eye, so feel free to drop a comment below and let me know your thoughts.
And if you’re looking for more reading recommendations, be sure to check out the related posts below for even more great book picks.
Happy reading, and don’t forget to share your favorites with friends too.
